The May long Victoria Day weekend is the unofficial kickoff to summer in Sault Ste. Marie. After a long Northern Ontario winter, there’s nothing quite like that first smell of a campfire and the quiet of the woods.
For many RV owners across Northern Ontario, the May Long weekend is also the first trip of the camping season. A little preparation before heading out can go a long way toward avoiding common early-season problems and making the most of your first weekend at the campsite.
At Christie’s RV, we want your first outing to be about spending time at the campsite instead of troubleshooting problems. Here is our guide to planning a smooth May Long weekend.
1. Pick Your Destination (Local Gems)
If you haven’t booked yet, now is the time. For those looking to stay close to home but still escape into nature, here are a few Northern Ontario favourites:
- Pancake Bay Provincial Park: Famous for its stunning sandy beach often called the “Caribbean of the North.” It’s a great option for a first trip because it’s close enough to the Soo if you realize you forgot something important.
- Blueberry Hill Campground: A family-run campground with full-service sites, ideal if you want to test your RV systems with the comfort of full hookups.
- Chutes Provincial Park: A beautiful spring destination where you can experience waterfalls at peak flow from the seasonal runoff.
Spring conditions in Northern Ontario can change quickly. Always check campground opening dates, fire restrictions and local weather conditions before travelling.
2. The Northern Ontario Spring Gear Strategy
In May, you can experience all four seasons in one weekend. Your packing list should reflect that reality.
Layer Up
It might reach 20°C during the day, but temperatures can still drop close to freezing overnight. Pack extra thermal blankets and a reliable RV-safe space heater.
Bug Defence
Late May marks the beginning of blackfly season across Northern Ontario. Consider portable insect-control devices or a screened dining shelter to make evenings outdoors more comfortable.
Mud Management
Spring campsites are often soft and muddy. Bring extra outdoor mats and levelling blocks to help stabilize your RV during setup.
3. The Last-Minute Safety Check
Since your RV has been sitting through the winter, give it a complete “First Trip” walkthrough at least 48 hours before departure.
Tires & Lug Nuts
Check tire pressure and confirm lug nuts are tightened to manufacturer specifications before travelling. Seasonal temperature swings can affect tire pressure after storage.
The Driveway Test
If possible, spend one night in your RV while it’s parked at home. This is one of the easiest ways to confirm your furnace, water pump, fridge and electrical systems are all working properly before heading out.
4. Stock the Essentials
Your first trip of the season usually reveals what needs replacing from last year. Whether it’s fresh RV-safe toilet paper, a new water filter, cooking supplies or setup gear, our Parts & Accessories team at Christie’s RV can help you get prepared before the long weekend rush.
🏕️ The “First Trip” Essentials Checklist
Print this checklist and keep it handy before your first trip of the season.
1. Interior Comfort & Climate
- Bedding Upgrade: Pack extra wool or fleece blankets for chilly May nights.
- Wardrobe Layers: Pack moisture-wicking base layers and warm socks.
- Strategic Packing: Use clear storage bins to keep clothing dry and organized.
- Floor Runners: Help manage mud and moisture inside the RV.
- Dehumidifier/DampRid: Reduce excess moisture and storage odours.
- Flashlights & Headlamps: Check batteries before leaving.
2. Kitchen & Pantry Re-Stock
- Replace fresh water filters from last season.
- Confirm propane tanks are filled and cooking supplies are packed.
- Check campfire cooking equipment and cookware.
- Bring RV-safe toilet paper and cleaning supplies.
- Don’t forget coffee supplies for those cold Northern Ontario mornings.
3. Exterior & Setup Gear
- Check tire pressure before travelling.
- Pack extra levelling blocks for soft spring campsites.
- Inspect rubber seals and exterior connections.
- Test your surge protector or EMS before connecting to campground power.
- Inspect water and sewer hoses for cracks or leaks.
4. The Northern Ontario Essentials
- Pack bug spray and insect repellents for blackfly season.
- Bring outdoor mats to help control mud and slush.
- Repair damaged window screens before travelling.
- Pack rain gear and waterproof footwear.
- Bring sturdy stakes for windy spring conditions.
5. Safety First
- Inspect your first aid kit.
- Check fire extinguisher pressure.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Inspect propane connections carefully.
- Confirm your roadside emergency kit is complete.
Before You Head Out
Gear Up Before You Go
Stop by our Parts Department on Trout Lake Road for RV-safe camping supplies, kitchen gear, water filters and setup essentials designed for spring camping conditions.
Join the Community
Heading out for the May Long weekend? Tag your camping buddy and share your destination with us on Facebook or Instagram.
#MayLongWeekend #RVLifeOntario #NorthernOntarioCamping #ChristiesRV
Written by the RV Service Team at Christie’s RV
With years of hands-on RV service experience in Northern Ontario, the Christie’s RV team understands the unique challenges that come with early-season camping in Algoma Country. From spring setup tips to seasonal maintenance recommendations, our technicians help local RVers prepare for safe and enjoyable travel throughout the camping season.
